Thatch is quite possibly the most commonly used material for roofing worldwide, considering that the materials for thatching are diverse and readily available. Obviously different materials will be used depending on suitable local plants.

In the UK and Republic of Ireland we have the most thatched properties in all of Europe. Traditional thatch in Devon is usually wheat reed, now available for the industry from specialist farms. although water reed is also a commonly used material. A good quality thatch using wheat reed laid by an expert thatcher will last for over half a century, remaining watertight and serviceable. Under optimum conditions, water reed can last for more than seventy years. Historically, the new thatch was laid in layers over the top of the existing thatch, so long as it was still in reasonable condition. Some very old properties in England have thatch seven feet thick in places and the lower levels of reed date back over 600 years.

Well laid thatch will not need much maintenance, although under exceptional circumstances repairs may be needed. The thatch can be damaged by particularly bad storms and it will probably need to be replaced every fifteen years or so. The reeds within the thatch thin our over time, as it is exposed to the weather. This thinning is natural and will not cause any problems nor does it mean that the thatch needs replacement. Once the thatch has reached the end of its life, the fixings will be close to the surface, and will then need to be rethatched. Water coming through the thatch is usually the result of either storm damage or by capillary action drawing tiny quantities of water through the thatch. If you have moss growing on the thatch does not necessarily mean a problem exists. Although, if it something that worries you, then it is best to seek an expert opinion.